I'm a Vegetarian... Once a Week

Once a week, every week, it's my goal to feed our family as vegetarians. Why on earth would we do this? Well, basically, it's for the earth. Read on to find out more about why skipping out on meat once a week is good for your health and the planet.

Your Health

When you're not eating meat... you'll probably be eating more vegetables. You can never go wrong with more vegetables, my friend. The small change of eating meat-free once a week adds up over time in regards to the nutrients, minerals, and fibre we're getting in our diet!

And, as you probably know, eating red meat isn't the best thing for your heart. So, replacing that hamburger with beans, veggies, and grains (even once a week) will help lower your risk for health issues, like cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

 

---

Your Wallet

A steak is more expensive than a can of black beans. Yes, I know, that is super obvious. But it's worth stating that you'll save money by swapping out meat once a week for veggies, grains, and legumes!

Your Planet

Did you know that the production of the meat we eat is the leading cause of climate change, water depletion, soil erosion, and most other environmental problems (I mean, that's what the UN scientists are saying). The best thing we can do for the environment is take a break from eating meat.

Plus, more than half of the world's crops are used to feed farmed animals, not people. Um, how crazy is that?! When 1 billion people on our planet currently go hungry, it's so much more sustainable to eat crops directly rather than to eat the animals that eat the crops. It's such a small action that can have an affect of world hunger.

Wondering what you'll feed your family if you go meat-free once a week? Check out some of these recipes and blogs for some veggie inspiration!

Sarah Kaminski shares plant-based recipes regularly. Check out these cauliflower nachos, but be sure to peruse the rest of her recipes as well!

If you have an Instant Pot, I love these Vegan Quinoa Burrito Bowls!

I have two Angela Liddon's cookbooks (Oh, She Glows) and her website is full of mouth-watering vegan recipes.

And, of course, Pinterest! Tip in "Vegetarian dinner" or even "Meatless Monday" to find plenty of recipes to satisfy your desire for better health (and a healthier earth) and your hunger!